Contingencies affecting emergency preparedness for hazardous wastes

ABSTRACT

Through a case study of emergency preparedness activities at the largest hazardous waste landfill within the United States, which is located in Sumter County, Alabama, this article highlights three features which constrain such preparedness efforts (1)the specialized nature of hazardous waste; (2)the politicization of the hazardous waste industry; and (3)jurisdictional dilemmas created by the merger of public and private roles in hazardous waste emergency preparedness. The article concludes with a discussion of policy implications for federal, state and local policymakers and implementers.(AU)